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watermelon chow recipe

Refreshing Watermelon Chow

Sweet, juicy watermelon is transformed into a refreshing Caribbean Watermelon Chow with fresh lime juice, Scotch Bonnet pepper, garlic, cilantro, and mint. This quick no-cook recipe is the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, salty, and tangy flavors.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Marinating 10 minutes
Course Appetizers & Snacks, Caribbean Classics, Chris's Kitchen, Easy Caribbean Recipes, Summer Recipes
Cuisine General Caribbean
Servings 6

Ingredients
  

  • 3 lbs watermelon large chunks
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 cloves garlic crushed
  • 1/4 Scotch Bonnet pepper finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons cilantro chopped
  • 2 tablespoons mint chiffonade
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili lime powder Trader Joe's
  • 2 limes juiced

Instructions
 

  • Add the large chunks of the watermelon to a large bowl. I'd suggest using chilled watermelon.
    watermelon chunks for watermelon chow
  • Now top with all of the ingredients and, being somewhat gentle, combine to allow all of the flavors to marry and become harmonious.
    spices and herbs added to watermelon chow
  • watermelon chow topped with freshly squeezed lime juice
  • I'd recommend allowing this to sit in the fridge for about 10 to 15 minutes to marinate, or cousoumeh (pronounced coo-sue-may), as we'd say in Trinidad. In Trinidadian Creole, cousoumeh refers to letting ingredients sit together so the flavors have time to marry and become harmonious before serving. While the term can also describe ingredients slowly simmering together, in this recipe it's all about giving the watermelon time to absorb the lime juice, garlic, herbs, and pepper.
    tossed watermelon chow
  • Serve chilled.
    chilled watermelon chow
  • If you enjoy watermelon, may I suggest you also try my Watermelon Ice, Heirloom Tomato and Watermelon Salad, and the ever-classic Refreshing Watermelon and Berry Smoothie recipes.

Video

Notes

Frequently Asked Questions

 

Can I make Watermelon Chow ahead of time?

Yes. But I'd recommend preparing everything in advance and assembling it 10 minutes before serving.

Can I substitute another pepper for Scotch Bonnet?

Yes. While Scotch Bonnet gives the chow its authentic Caribbean flavor and heat, you can reduce the amount or substitute another hot pepper if you prefer a milder version.

Why is lime juice important in Watermelon Chow?

Fresh lime juice balances the sweetness of the watermelon while giving the chow its signature bright, tangy finish.

What other fruits can I make into chow?

Mango Chow and Pineapple Chow are among the most popular Caribbean fruit chows, while Cucumber Chow is another wonderfully refreshing variation.
 
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